The Kirkus Prize is one of the richest literary awards in the world, with a prize of $50,000 bestowed annually to authors of fiction, nonfiction and young readers’ literature. It was created to celebrate the 81 years of discerning, thoughtful criticism Kirkus Reviews has contributed to both the publishing industry and readers at large. Books that earned the Kirkus Star with publication dates between November 1, 2014, and October 31, 2015, are automatically nominated for the 2015 Kirkus Prize, and the winners will be selected on October 23, 2015, by an esteemed panel composed of nationally respected writers and highly regarded booksellers, librarians and Kirkus critics.

KIRKUS REVIEW

A former divorce lawyer and popular food blogger shells out veggies and sweets in abundance.

Meet the happy Pea Family. Matheny—Pea Mama—dishes up a premiere vegan cookbook with more than 85 recipes and gorgeous full-color photographs, in which she provides a pantry stock list and cute stories about hubby (Pea Daddy) and two adorable little pea girls. There’s even a pea kitty in the family. Yes, it’s corny, but it won’t take long to realize that Matheny’s Thai Veggie Burgers will coax even the most zealous carnivores into eating and actually enjoying healthy food. Matheny is obviously a concerned mother trying to inspire her kids to eat well—and her solution is to make it fun for all involved. She breaks it down by meal, beginning with mouthwatering breakfast recipes that include a variety of to-die-for fruit smoothies and Life’s Not Fair Blueberry Scones. Flavorful and meatless lunches range from Spicy African Peanut Slow Cooker Soup to Skinny Elvis Sandwiches (almond butter and strawberries replace The King’s beloved peanut butter and banana pairing), while Seitan Lettuce Wraps are appetizing sources of dinner protein with the flavor and texture of meat. Also found here are plenty of sides, sauces, snacks and desserts—e.g., German Chocolate Cake and soft “mall” pretzels. Ingredients can be easily sourced at the local market.

Matheny’s easy-to-follow directions, garnished with lively anecdotes, will have more readers adding the author’s meatless recipes to their repertoire.

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